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INNOVATE24

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A circular logo with the number "24" in orange, followed by a rightward arrow. Surrounding the circle, light gray text reads: "Navigating Collaboration. Driving Growth.

Questions? Contact us or call 785-236-8723

Welcome to INNOVATE24

INNOVATE24 is a dynamic organization committed to driving economic growth in our region by fostering the creation, attraction, and expansion of innovative startups. We aim to build a thriving startup ecosystem that not only supports entrepreneurial ventures but also brings new jobs, investment, and prosperity to our community.

We collaborate with a wide network of partners, including entrepreneur support organizations, investors, and educational institutions, to connect startups with the resources, expertise, and opportunities they need to succeed. By setting and striving toward ambitious impact goals, we are dedicated to making a lasting difference in our region’s economic landscape.

At Innovate24, we believe in the power of innovation, collaboration, and community to transform our region into a hub of startup activity. Whether you’re a startup looking for support or a partner ready to contribute to our mission, we welcome you to join us on this exciting journey.

Meet Stephanie Pierce

Executive Director

I’m passionate about driving economic development and fostering entrepreneurship. My journey began in 2004 in Manhattan, Kansas, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from Kansas State University. I later returned to K-State to complete my MBA in 2019.

I’ve had the pleasure of founding and running two businesses, Purple Swirl Frozen Yogurt and Champagne Affairs, which helped me develop strong leadership and business skills. This entrepreneurial spirit led me to my current role as the Executive Director of Innovate24.

Before Innovate24, I spent nearly six years at K-State Innovation Partners, first as the Economic Development & Entrepreneur Relations Manager and then as the Director of Economic & Entrepreneurial Engagement. There, I worked on key initiatives leveraging the university’s strengths for economic development, while also working closely with partners to build a vibrant local entrepreneur ecosystem.My background in management, marketing, and strategic planning, combined with my passion for innovation and community impact, drives me every day. I’m excited to continue making a difference in Manhattan and beyond!

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Stephanie Pierce, a woman with long, straight blonde hair, smiles at the camera. She is wearing a sleeveless gray and white patterned top and stands in front of a textured beige wall.

Innovate24

Connecting with Innovate24 has been an incredible experience for my photography business! The guidance and support I received truly opened doors to new collaborations and local partnerships and helped me refine my vision, improve my business strategy, and expand my network. Their commitment to fostering innovation and supporting businesses like mine will have a lasting impact. I’m grateful for their support and they have made a lasting impact on my small business journey.

Sammy Kopecky

Working with Innovate24 has been very important and influential from the beginning steps of my business all the way up to our release. Their mentorship, understanding, and availability have helped us refine our business model and be a source of knowledgeable advice when needed. Beyond expert advice, Innovate24 connected us with a network of local entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, opening new doors and connections for our business. Their dedication to helping our business is something I will cherish for the rest of my life as it was and still is a very vital part of our business to this day. It doesn’t get better than Innovate24!

Eli James

Thanks to receiving an Empower Loan, we were able to start Hungry Chickpea and quickly grow. We’re thrilled to serve our community with healthy options and thankful to Innovate24, the Kansas Small Business Development Center at Washburn, the Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills, Network Kansas, and all those who have supported us along the way.

Kristi Baonga

Receiving the Elevate Micro-Business Loan was a pivotal moment for TheraPie. It enabled us to scale with a new kitchen build, which will result in increasing our capacity and creating more jobs and opportunities to support our community. We’re so grateful for the support of Innovate24 and the Kansas Small Business Development Center at Washburn as well as Network Kansas and the City of -Manhattan for making the Elevate Fund possible. Thanks to all those who have helped us grow and continue sharing our passion for connecting with delicious handmade, from-scratch pies with love.

Tiffany Oppelt

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